Episode 2: The Harvard Variations

There's a particular energy that fills the air after the final curtain call, a mix of exhilaration and shared experience. Cast Party captures that feeling, bringing the buzz of the lobby and the stories from behind the velvet rope directly to you. Hosted by Shea's Performing Arts Center insiders Ken Liszewski, Julianna Tracey, and Rita Sirianni, this podcast feels like joining a conversation with friends who live and breathe theatre. You'll hear from the artists, directors, and craftspeople who make the magic happen on Buffalo's historic stage, but also from the ushers, patrons, and community members whose stories are woven into the fabric of every performance. It’s less about formal reviews and more about the human connection to live performance-the mishaps, the triumphs, and the pure joy that keeps people coming back. Tune in for candid chats that go beyond the playbill, exploring how a landmark theatre operates and why the performing arts matter in a city's heart. Each episode is an invitation to pull up a chair, whether you're a seasoned subscriber or just curious about what happens when the house lights dim. This is your backstage pass to the passion, hard work, and glittering moments that define the Shea's experience.